‘Wike is Not a Member’: Presidency Officially Declares Fubara Leader of Rivers APC

ABUJA — The Presidency has unequivocally declared Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the authentic leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, effectively shutting the door on FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s claims to the party’s local structure.

The definitive clarification came from Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, during an interview on Channels Television’s Hard Copy on Thursday.

This development serves as a major endorsement for Governor Fubara, who has faced relentless political battles since defecting to the ruling party in December 2025, and a stinging setback for his predecessor, Wike.

“Governors Lead the Party”

Bwala wasted no time in settling the leadership debate that has torn the state chapter apart. He aligned strictly with the position of the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, who recently affirmed that the party constitution confers leadership on the highest-ranking political office holder in the state.

“I agree with the point highlighted by the National Chairman that in Rivers State, Governor Fubara is the leader of the APC,” Bwala stated. “It is the standard practice. In all states where we have a governor, the governor leads the party. Rivers is not an exception.”

The Wike Dilemma

In a blunt assessment, the Presidential aide dismissed Nyesom Wike’s interference in the internal affairs of the APC, reminding the public of the FCT Minister’s actual political affiliation.

“Wike is not a member of the APC, so he cannot speak for the APC,” Bwala asserted. “He may be the leader of the PDP in Rivers State because he was a former governor and they do not have a governor at the moment. But in the APC, the leader is Governor Fubara.”

He further clarified that while Wike serves as a Minister under President Tinubu, his role is a federal appointment that does not confer authority over the APC’s state organs.

“The President believes in compensating people, but not at the expense of what is right,” Bwala added, signaling that Tinubu’s political patronage has limits when it conflicts with party constitutionality.

Impeachment Distraction

Addressing the ongoing impeachment threats by the pro-Wike faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Bwala indicated that the national leadership of the APC expects the governor to function without hindrance.

“The party is clear. Nobody should stop Fubara from governing the state,” he warned, referencing existing court orders that protect the governor’s tenure.

What This Means for 2027

This declaration fundamentally alters the power dynamics in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

• For Fubara: It cements his control over the party machinery, giving him the leverage to direct congresses and primaries.
• For Wike: It leaves the “political strongman” in a precarious position—holding a powerful ministerial portfolio but lacking an official political base in the ruling party he serves.